Cup of Cocoa

Daily Gratitude Year Six-Day 352: Today, I am grateful for a cup of cocoa.

This season of deep chills and cold toes is one of the reasons we love hot chocolate. This picture (found on Pinterest) brought an instant smile. Cocoa and friends go together. Cocoa with marshmallows melting on top are the perfect touch of whimsy.

Imagine the shepherds in the field on the night they received the angel's announcement and songs. Had they gathered around a campfire to ward of the evening chill? I wonder if they had a hot beverage to warm them to their toes? I bet they had something in their food sacks, as we humans plan for creature comforts.

I savor my daily coffee... but enjoy tea, too. Cocoa... is for special occasions. No because of the cost, but because of the decadence and the calories. Chocolate you can drink! What a treat.

The night Jesus was born was a hot cocoa kind of night. A night for gathering and sharing something special. The shepherds had no idea it would be that kind of night until suddenly, the angels appeared in the heavens. Oh, what a night!

"That night there were shepherds staying in the fields nearby, guarding their flocks of sheep. Suddenly, an angel of the Lord appeared among them, and the radiance of the Lord’s glory surrounded them. They were terrified, but the angel reassured them. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I bring you good news that will bring great joy to all people. The Savior—yes, the Messiah, the Lord—has been born today in Bethlehem, the city of David! And you will recognize him by this sign: You will find a baby wrapped snugly in strips of cloth, lying in a manger.” Suddenly, the angel was joined by a vast host of others—the armies of heaven—praising God and saying,“Glory to God in highest heaven, and peace on earth to those with whom God is pleased.” -Luke 2:8-14

We can't always anticipate and plan for the special moments in life. In fact, our loving God enjoys surprising us with the wonder and goodness of His love. We never know when the day will bring a "cup of cocoa" moment. It is good to have some on hand.

Celebrate the special moments this season. Don't forget to have some cocoa on hand.

Today, I am grateful for a cup of cocoa.